Vol. 477 No. 7
11 Mrs. T. Ahern asked the Minister for Education if the restrictive quota on Higher Diploma in Education places will be lifted in view of the mobility of teachers and the recognition of teacher qualifications between member states; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6369/97]
The current quota of 800 for admissions to the Higher Diploma in Education was set on the basis of a recommendation by the Higher Education Authority. The HEA's advice was based on recommendations of a working group composed of representatives of the universities, the Department of Education and the authority. The working group took account of the best available data on the demand for second level teachers.
The working group, under the chairmanship of the Higher Education Authority, has been reconvened, supported by an analyst and statistician, to undertake an in-depth review of future needs for second level teachers. This review is focusing both on total needs and on needs by subject grouping, where feasible. The working group is examining all relevant factors such as pupil numbers, pupil-teacher ratios, teacher retirements and career breaks as well as the effect of teacher mobility within the European Union. The work of the group is at an advanced stage.
Pending the report of the working group, the intake to Higher Diploma in Education courses for 1997-98 will remain at 800.
